A client gave birth 2 days ago and is preparing for discharge. The nurse assesses respirations to be 26 breaths/min and labored, and the client complains of chest pain & short of breath ambulating from the bathroom this morning. Lung sounds are clear. The nurse alerts the primary care provider and the nurse- midwife to her concern that the client may be experiencing:
pulmonary embolism.
mitral valve collapse.
upper respiratory infection.
thrombophlebitis.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Pulmonary embolism (PE): PE is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs, often originating from a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Postpartum clients are at increased risk due to hypercoagulability. Symptoms include sudden-onset dyspnea, chest pain, tachypnea, tachycardia, and hypoxia despite clear lung sounds. This warrants immediate intervention.
B. Mitral valve collapse: This is not a common postpartum complication and does not explain the client’s acute symptoms.
C. Upper respiratory infection: URIs present with cough, congestion, fever, and abnormal lung sounds, which this client does not have.
D. Thrombophlebitis: This refers to localized inflammation of a superficial vein, which may cause leg pain and swelling but does not typically result in respiratory distress.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Supporting the uterus decreases the amount of pain." Incorrect. While proper support may reduce discomfort, the primary reason is structural support.
B. "This is necessary because the ligaments that hold the uterus are stretched." Correct. The uterus is enlarged postpartum, and the ligaments are weakened, making support necessary.
C. "This will decrease the severity of uterine bleeding." Not the primary reason, though proper fundal massage can aid in hemorrhage prevention.
D. "This will help with uterine involution." Incorrect. Uterine involution is driven by hormonal changes and contractions, not just support.
Correct Answer is ["A","C"]
Explanation
A. Correct. Common symptoms of postpartum blues include emotional sensitivity, mood swings, crying spells, and difficulty sleeping.
B. Incorrect. Medications are not typically needed for postpartum blues, as the condition resolves on its own.
C. Correct. Postpartum blues usually last for about 10–14 days and resolve without intervention.
D. Incorrect. While fathers can experience mood changes postpartum, postpartum blues specifically refer to hormonal changes in the mother.
E. Incorrect. Postpartum blues are common, affecting up to 50-80% of postpartum women.
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